Liverpool appear to finally be closing in on a striker but there could still be room for another one.

Over the last few days, the Reds have been stepping up their interest to find a number nine who has the answer to all of their problems.

Darwin Nunez lacks that clinical edge and Liverpool need someone who will regularly tuck away the chances that the likes of Florian Wirtz and Mohamed Salah will create.

Liverpool make first move for Hugo Ekitike as striker says yes	Liverpool could be ready to make their move for Hugo Ekitike	Newcastle could sell ‘outstanding’ star to Liverpool if they sign Hugo Ekitike, and it’s not Alexander Isak – opinion

Hugo Ekitike appears to be the man they are trusting to do this, with the Reds submitting their first bid for the Frenchman as they move on from Alexander Isak.

Despite having to spend over £75m if they are to secure his services, Liverpool could still be in the market for another striker as well, especially after his price tag has been revealed, and it is an absolute bargain.

The Reds have been linked with a plethora of names over the last few months, but a surprising one that came up recently was that of Jean-Philippe Mateta.

Liverpool reportedly held a meeting with Mateta’s agents, as well as the player himself, in Paris to discuss a potential move, much to the shock of many.

That being said, although they are closing in on Ekitike, L’Equipe have reported that Crystal Palace have set an asking price of just €30m (£26m) for the 28-year-old, suggesting the Reds could still make a move.

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AC Milan were said to be interested but feel that the cheaper alternative of Dusan Vlahovic might be the better option, leaving the door open for an Anfield move.

The French newspaper also states Mateta’s desires to be a part of France’s World Cup squad next summer, something he feels he would not be able to achieve if he stays in South London.

He is said to be looking for the next step up in his career and this is something he could get at Liverpool, again indicating that a move is still plausible.

The Reds have spent huge amounts of money already this summer and this is not going to stop anytime soon, meaning outgoings will happen.

Nunez is tipped with a move away and if Liverpool do sell him for around their asking price of £65m, which is very unlikely, they could replace him for more than half of the price.

As well as getting a cheaper alternative, they will also be acquiring a Premier-League proven player who knows where the back of the net is, with Mateta perhaps even an upgrade on Nunez.

Thierry Henry has raved about Mateta in the past and strongly believes that he is an excellent player, and he would certainly be an excellent option to have at Liverpool.

Game time might be an issue as he wants to get into the France squad, but he could still achieve this due to the amount of games the Reds will be playing next season.


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